The Heat: The rise of Cote D’Ivoire after years of crisis

The Heat

The world’s top cocoa grower emerges from a decade long crisis to become a rising economic star in West Africa.

United Nations peacekeepers and international police will end a 12-year mission in Cote D’Ivoire next year. It’s a sign of confidence in the West African nation’s progress toward peace, after years of political turmoil and violence.

The United Nations also lifted an arms embargo, as well as a travel ban and asset freeze on individuals. The International Monetary Fund predicts the Cote D’Ivoire economy will grow by eight-point-five percent this year.

New commercial centers and shopping malls have opened in the economic capital of Abidjan, thanks to an influx of foreign investment. And the government is investing millions of dollars in hotels in an effort to improve the service industry and boost tourism.

To take a deeper look:

  • Imad Mesdoua, a political analyst for Africa Matters.
  • Gnaka Lagoke, a specialist in African political affairs, development and Pan-Africanism.
  • Etah Ewane, a geopolitical and development analyst.